Members of the VHP and Bajrang Dal, who are attending an arms training camp across several states, recently held a vigilante march claiming to protest against terrorism. The participants carried sharp wooden sticks, often used as weapons, and gave speeches targeting Muslims.
The march included cow vigilantes and people from the training camp, who shouted slogans like “Jai Shree Ram” and abusive chants against Pakistan. They also called for a boycott of Muslim businesses, including auto repair shops and barber shops, spreading fear and communal hatred in the area.
The event took place in Ghatampur, about 40 km from Kanpur, where just a day earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi had delivered a speech during the inauguration of the Ghatampur Thermal Power Project. He mentioned that the foundation stone was supposed to be laid earlier, but the event was delayed due to the attack in Pahalgam.
“No matter where the enemy is, they will be hunted down and crushed,” he said at the event.
He reiterated that Operation Sindoor has not been rolled back and is still ongoing.
The VHP has been organising arms training camps across different states, including the Kodagu district in Karnataka. The arms training, which includes guns and trishools, has received backlash from social activists and opposition leaders.
On May 23, VHP also conducted training on firearms in Narela, Delhi. The VHP claims that their intention is to enhance physical and intellectual training, and that using air guns and trishools does not violate the Arms Act.
VHP also informed that more than 400 youth will participate in its arms training camp in Ranchi, which reportedly took place on May 27.
